The Ministry of Science and ICT announced on the 31st that it will implement a revised technical standard concerning the charging and data transmission methods of mobile and smart devices starting from February next year.
The key focus is to standardize the charging specifications of electronic devices that charge or transmit data using wired cables to the USB-C type. To this end, the Ministry of Science and ICT has announced an administrative notice for the establishment of technical standards for charging and data transmission methods of broadcasting and telecommunications equipment.
For broadcasting and telecommunications, wireless equipment, and electromagnetic wave-related devices to be distributed domestically, they must undergo a broadcasting and telecommunications equipment conformity assessment (radio certification). Among these devices, 13 types, including mobile phones, tablets, digital cameras, headphones, headsets, handheld gaming consoles, portable speakers, e-book readers, keyboards, mice, portable navigation devices, earphones, and laptops, must mandatorily apply the USB-C type.
The targeted devices are similar to those for which the European Union (EU) has mandated the USB-C type charging port. The EU began this mandate on the 28th (local time). The notice will take effect from February 14 next year. However, for laptops, the application will start on April 1, 2026.
In addition, the Ministry of Science and ICT will launch the integrated employment support service 'Digital Badge Employment 24' based on digital badges in early next year. A digital badge is a tool that certifies the learner's competencies through achievements such as education and experience. It utilizes blockchain encryption technology to prevent forgery and can include not only results from education but also processes.
Previously, individuals had to issue and submit documents from individual institutions, but now they can manage job-related certificates as digital badges on mobile devices and easily generate digital resumes to submit to hiring companies. The government explained that this is expected to reduce unnecessary administrative expenses arising from approximately 9 million job applications per year.